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This study examines the techniques for promoting library information resources and services
through outreach activities and how librarians and other library patrons perceive the techniques
for promoting the resources and services, and the factors affecting the perceptions regarding
effectiveness of techniques used. Data were collected using a survey questionnaire that was
purposively distributed to students, librarians and members of academic staff. A total of 40
respondents participated in the study. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential
statistics (Chi-square Test) using SPSS software V.16. It was found that several techniques are
used to promote library resources and services. These include catalogues, displays, print adverts
each 7%, followed by e-mails (6%) and workshops, phones, leaflets, and face to face events each
5%. The present position respondent holds were found to influence positively and significantly a
number of outreach approaches. It was found that the catalogue was rated effective by 28 (70%)
respondents in promoting library services, the website was rated effective by 28 (70%) of
respondents and the posters were rated effective by 20 (50%) of respondents. From the study, it
can be concluded that the library could invest in the use of most highly rated outreach techniques
such as face-to-face events, training sessions, workshops, brochures, catalogue, website, phones,
leaflets, adverts, e-mail, classroom instructions, social media, posters and library tours to
promote the use of services and resources among the library user community. On the part of
respondents, they gave the following opinions to improve outreach services: use of social media
and library website updates (61%), frequent email alerts of new arrivals, regular user training,
and increased publicity by brochures and leaflets each (13%). |
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